Developer unveils new videos of Woolwich development and market (but ignores the ugly bits)

A developer behind a major new proposed Woolwich development has released a number of walk-through videos as part of a PR push for approval.

The development last week saw opposition from Save Britain’s Heritage. While the group made some frankly silly claims that much of Woolwich’s remaining heritage was at risk through this development, it did highlight some of the uglier parts of the plan.

Courtesy Woolwich Exchange. One of the better parts of the plan

Developer St Modwen and Notting Hill Genesis seem to agree as they studiously avoid it in the video. It was also difficult to gain images of certain angles and blocks in planning documents.

Towers viewed from east

Massing is overbearing and ungainly at an area to the north east corner of the site.

Overbearing

Given how tricky it is to find images of this section and the developer seems somewhat embarrassed by it, why have they persisted with the design? Adjusting heights in other areas and setbacks from the street at upper floors would break up what is a pretty imposing area.

Height focused in one corner – why not stagger south to 3-4 storey block?

The video also shows landscaping planned directly beside busy bus stops. The developer states Greenwich Council will maintain. I would wager now that this area will become a mess and will not be well maintained – just like it wasn’t before reworking a decade ago and other areas of the street removed over the past five years.

Landscaped raised planter

I hope I’m wrong but history of the area isn’t promising. A shame these issues are in place as much of the plan offers a lot; a revamped market with cinema, new square and public space and an opportunity for bringing something new to the town.

The video also includes obligatory new Routemasters which never venture to this part of SE London.

Videos feature a walkthrough of the indoor market site. Cinema screens will be located in a basement area with food and drink outlets above. Cineworld’s premium brand Picturehouse signed up for the site.

Courtesy Woolwich Exchange

To view the walkthrough video of the wider site click here.

To view a walkthrough of the new market click here.

To view an extensive look at the site and submitted plans from December 2020 click here.

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J Smith

I've lived in south east London most of my life growing up in Greenwich borough and working in the area for many years. The site has contributors on occasion and we cover many different topics. Living and working in the area offers an insight into what is happening locally.

3 thoughts on “Developer unveils new videos of Woolwich development and market (but ignores the ugly bits)

  • I do hope somebody takes note of these concerns. The hight of the buildings is really overbearing, and the whole area could become a complete mess (just look at the future slums they’re building near Lewisham station).

    Reply
  • Re future slums – is it a case of ‘by the time we get found out, we’ll be gone. So let’s make some money now and not worry about anything else’? Wake up people, it’s your future and the future of your children and grandchildren that they are getting rich on.

    Reply
  • Stop complaining, the area needs regeneration, and London needs homes. At least these developers have made an effort to engage the local people. I personally support the plans, they can’t come soon enough. The divide between Royal Arsenal and the rest of Woolwich is comparable to segregation in the U.S. This needs to change and developments like this will close the gap.

    Reply

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